JP2007005942A - Document file acquisition method, document processing apparatus, and document file acquisition program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a document file acquisition method whereby a user can easily search document files processed by a document processing apparatus. <P>SOLUTION: The document processing apparatuses each for storing processed document files and processing history information including processing date and time when the processing is executed in cross-reference with each other and an information processing apparatus are connected to each other via a network, and the information processing apparatus employs the document file acquisition method to acquire a document file processed by any of the document processing apparatuses, and the method includes: a step of displaying an apparatus selection menu and accepting the designation of an apparatus of a file acquisition object; a step of receiving the processing history information from a designated document processing apparatus; a display selection reception step of displaying parts of the processing history information the processing date and time of each of which is included within a prescribed date and time zone from the received processing history information and accepting the selection of at least one of the parts of the processing history information among the displayed parts of the processing history information; and an acquisition step of acquiring a document file associated with the selected part of the processing history information. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2007,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a method for acquiring a document file in an information processing apparatus connected to a document processing apparatus, and more particularly to a technique that enables desired document data to be easily selected from a large number of document data.

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, document processing apparatuses such as MFPs (Multi Function Peripherals) having functions such as scanning, copying, printing, and FAX have been provided with a box for storing document files.
A box is a storage area allocated on a storage device such as an HDD (Hard Disk Drive). By storing (storing) a document file that has been created by scanning or the like on the document processing apparatus in this box, the document file can be reused.

By the way, there are cases where it is desired to select desired document data from the document files stored in the box, transfer the document file to the information processing apparatus (terminal apparatus), and reuse it.
Conventionally, in this case, transfer is performed using a document file operation tool installed in the information processing apparatus, that is, the user uses (1) a document file operation tool (such as a box utility software). (2) Select a document to be transferred from the list or thumbnail displayed document file, (3) Drag and drop the selected document file icon to the transfer destination folder, etc. (4) The transfer of a desired document file to the information processing apparatus is performed by performing a series of instructions (1) to (4) to the information processing apparatus that the above-mentioned tool is activated and terminated after the transfer is completed. Is possible.
JP 2000-32241 A

However, the document file list displayed by the tool is usually simply displayed by arranging the document file names in order of creation date and time (or alphabetical order).
For this reason, especially when the number of selectable document files increases, it takes time to search for a document to be transferred from the document files.

Such work is particularly burdensome for a novice user who is unfamiliar with the operation, and there may be a situation where the novice user is at a loss in the face of a huge number of document files.
The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a document file acquisition method and the like that can easily select a desired document file from document files of a document processing apparatus. It is said.

  In the document file acquisition method according to the present invention, a document processing device that stores a document file that has been processed and processing history information that includes the processing date and time when the processing is performed, and an information processing device via a network. In the information processing apparatus, a document file acquisition method for acquiring a document file processed by the document processing apparatus, the document processing apparatus being an acquisition target on the screen of the information processing apparatus Among the processing history information received on the screen of the information processing device, a device designation receiving step for accepting designation, a receiving step for receiving processing history information from the designated document processing device at the information processing device, Displays processing history information in which the processing date and time is a predetermined date and time, and accepts selection of at least one processing history information from the displayed processing history information A display selection acceptance step that the document file associated with the selected processing history information, is characterized by having an acquisition step of acquiring from said document processing device.

Here, the “document file” refers to a document processing device such as document data created by various software such as word processor, spreadsheet, database, presentation, image data generated by scanning, image data transmitted / received by FAX, etc. Includes general data on documents managed and stored by
A document file acquisition program according to the present invention includes a document processing device that stores a document file that has been processed and processing history information that includes the processing date and time when the processing is performed, and an information processing device via a network. In the information processing apparatus, a document file acquisition program for acquiring a document file processed by the document processing apparatus, the document processing apparatus being an acquisition target on the screen of the information processing apparatus Among the processing history information received on the screen of the information processing device, a device designation receiving step for accepting designation, a receiving step for receiving processing history information from the designated document processing device at the information processing device, The processing history information whose processing date and time is a predetermined date and time zone is displayed, and at least one processing history information of the displayed processing history information is displayed. A display selection acceptance step of accepting a-option, is characterized in that to execute a document file associated with the selected processing history information, and acquiring from the document processing apparatus, to the information processing apparatus.

  According to these configurations, first, by receiving the designation of the document processing device to be acquired on the screen of the information processing device, the acquisition target is narrowed down to the document file of the designated document processing device, and the information processing device On the next screen, the processing history information whose processing date and time is in the predetermined date and time zone is displayed, so on this next screen, the processing history that has been subjected to double narrowing down of the device unit and processing date and time Only information will be displayed.

In other words, a desired document file can be searched more easily than in the past using the processing device and the processing date and time as clues.
The predetermined date and time zone is within a predetermined date and time from the current date and time.
According to this configuration, for example, if the predetermined date is the latest date, it is possible to easily search for a document file processed at the latest date.

The receiving step receives processing history information corresponding to the predetermined date and time zone.
According to this configuration, it is possible to suppress the transfer amount of information on the network.
In addition, the display selection receiving step includes a date / time zone classification menu display substep for displaying a date / time zone classification menu in which the date / time zone of the processing date / time included in the processing history information received in the reception step is classified; A date / time zone designation acceptance substep for accepting designation of at least one of the date / time zones classified and displayed by the menu and a designated date / time zone menu indicating the processing history information corresponding to the designated date / time zone are displayed. And a designated date and time zone menu display sub-step.

According to this configuration, the user can select the target document file candidates step by step based on the processing date and time, and the target document file can be selected more easily than before.
The date / time zone classification menu is a menu in which a date / time zone of a processing date / time from a current time to a predetermined date / time in the past is distinguished from a date / time zone of a processing date / time further past the predetermined date / time. To do.

The most recently processed document file tends to be a user's search target. Therefore, for example, if the most recent date and time is set as the predetermined date and time, the user can more easily select the target document file created most recently.
Furthermore, the date / time zone classification menu is characterized in that the date / time zone closer to the present time is a sub-classified menu.

Document files processed at a date and time closer than the current time tend to be searchable by the user. Further, the closer to the current time, the more the user tends to memorize the date and time. Therefore, with this configuration, further convenience in search can be ensured.
Further, the date / time zone classification menu does not display the specific date / time zone when the processing date / time within the range of the specific date / time zone does not exist.

According to this configuration, the date / time zone classification menu does not display a specific date / time zone that does not include the processing date and time, thereby reducing the amount of display information and contributing to the convenience of search.
In the designated date / time zone menu display sub-step, the designated date / time zone menu is displayed in a lower hierarchy of the date / time zone classification menu.
According to this configuration, it becomes possible for the user to intuitively understand the method of selecting the processing date and time to be displayed in stages as processing date and time clues.

  Further, the processing history information further includes user attribute information indicating a user attribute of the document file, and the display selection receiving step displays a user name selection menu display for displaying a user name selection menu in the document processing apparatus. Including at least one sub-step, wherein at least one of the date / time zone classification menu or the specified date / time zone menu is a menu relating to processing history information including user attribute information corresponding to a user name selected in the user name selection menu. It is characterized by that.

Users tend to search for document files related to themselves. Therefore, according to this configuration, the user can more quickly select the document file for which the user has instructed processing.
Furthermore, the user attribute information includes information indicating that the user attribute does not belong to a specific user, and at least one menu of the date / time zone classification menu or the specified date / time zone menu includes the user name. When a specific user name is not specified in the selection menu, the menu is related to processing history information including user attribute information indicating that the user does not belong to a specific user.

The document processing apparatus includes means for performing a plurality of types of processing on the document file, and the processing history information includes information for specifying a processing type, and is displayed in the designated date and time zone menu display substep. The designated date / time menu to be used is a menu showing the processing date / time and the type of processing corresponding to the designated date / time range.
According to this configuration, the target document file can be searched for using the type of processing of the document file as a clue.

The plurality of types of processing is at least one of scanning, FAX transmission, printing, and copying.
The user tends to search for a document file for which processing has been instructed (that is, not receiving but performing active processing such as creation / transmission). According to this configuration, it contributes to the convenience of search.

Further, the date / time zone classification menu in the date / time zone classification menu display sub-step is a context menu displayed in a window of a predetermined directory, and the acquisition step includes acquisition specifying information specifying the directory as an acquisition destination. The request is sent to the document processing apparatus.
According to this configuration, it is possible to specify the directory as a transfer destination without separately specifying a transfer destination.

In the date / time zone classification menu display sub-step, the date / time zone classification menu is displayed in response to a one-touch input of a key or button of an input device in the computer.
According to this configuration, the date / time zone classification menu is displayed without requiring a complicated operation, which contributes to user convenience.

The input device is a mouse, and the one-touch input is a right button click of the mouse.
Further, the document processing apparatus according to the present invention stores processing means for performing predetermined processing relating to a document file, storage means for associating and storing the processed document file and processing history information including the processing date and time when the processing was performed. A document processing apparatus comprising: a display control unit that controls display relating to a stored document file; and an operation input unit that receives an operation input related to the displayed document file, wherein the display control unit includes: As an acquisition target, a screen showing processing history information whose processing date and time is in a predetermined date and time zone is displayed, and selection of at least one processing history information among the displayed processing history information is received.

According to this configuration, it is possible to search for a document file using the processing date and time as a clue.
The document processing apparatus is connected to another document processing apparatus via a network, and the display control means displays a screen for accepting designation of a document processing apparatus from which a document file is to be acquired. When the other document processing device accepts the designation, the processing history information is received from the other document processing device, and the processing date / time of the received processing history information is a predetermined date / time zone. A screen showing processing history information is displayed, selection of at least one processing history information among the displayed processing history information is accepted, and a document file associated with the selected processing history information is transferred to the other document processing apparatus. It is characterized by receiving from.

Embodiments of a document file acquisition method according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings.
(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing the configuration of the file system 3.
The file system 3 includes MFP 1, MFP 2, and PC 100. Each device is connected via a LAN cable 5 to form a LAN.

A personal computer (PC) 100 that is an information processing apparatus includes a PC main body 110, a monitor 112, a keyboard 114, and a mouse 116. The mouse 116 is a two-button type and has a left button and a right button.
FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of the MFP 1. Since MFP 2 has the same configuration as MFP 1, only MFP 1 will be described and description of MFP 2 will be omitted.

The MFP 1 includes a scanner unit 12, a FAX unit 14, a mail transmission / reception unit 16, a storage unit 18, a network controller unit 20, an operation panel unit 22, a format conversion unit 24, a printer unit 26, a document file history management unit 28, and a control unit 30. I have. Hereinafter, functions of each unit will be described.
The scanner unit 12 reads an original document placed on a sheet feeder (not shown) and generates image data.

The FAX unit 14 performs FAX transmission / reception via a telephone line.
The mail transmitting / receiving unit 16 includes a mailer, and creates, transmits, and receives electronic mail.
The storage unit 18 includes an HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and includes a temporary BOX 18a and a user BOX 18b. Note that a rewritable DVD device or a storage medium such as a flash memory may be used instead of the HDD.

  Image data read and generated by the scanner unit 12 in the temporary BOX 18a, FAX image data transmitted / received by the FAX unit 14, mail attached file data transmitted / received by the mail transmitting / receiving unit 16, data to be printed by the printer unit 26, etc. All document files handled on the MFP 1 are automatically saved. As described above, all document files processed by the MFP 1 are temporarily stored in the temporary BOX 18a.

  Since the temporary BOX 18a is a temporary storage box, the stored document file has a predetermined period [this period may be set to distinguish between long and short according to the attribute (private / public) of the document file, The user may set the predetermined period in advance. After the elapse of time, the document file is set to be automatically deleted, and the capacity is secured by this.

  In this embodiment, since all document files handled by the MFP are automatically saved, this is very effective and preferable when a user wants a document handled later. It is not always necessary to automatically save all document files, such as only document files designated to be saved, or only document files not designated unless the user saves them.

The user BOX 18 b is a BOX assigned to each user of the MFP 1. This assignment may be in units of individual users, or in units of departments (groups) in a company or the like.
The network controller unit 20 includes, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) and transmits / receives data to / from other devices in the LAN.

The operation panel unit 22 includes a liquid crystal panel, a touch panel provided on the front surface of the liquid crystal panel, and a push button switch, and performs various displays and receives input from the user.
Since this liquid crystal panel is often smaller in screen size and resolution than a monitor in an information processing apparatus due to the configuration of the apparatus, a document file handled in the MFP 1 can be used as an information processing apparatus outside the MFP 1. There is a request from the user to check / edit above.

The format conversion unit 24 performs data format conversion of image data.
The printer unit 26 performs print processing for printing the received data on a sheet. Also, the original document read by the scanner unit 12 is copied.
The document file history management unit 28 manages the history information of the document file processed by the MFP 1 and stored in the temporary BOX 18a. Specifically, each time a document file is processed (here, “processing” is processing related to the document file, and includes processing such as document file creation processing, change processing, and transmission / reception processing). Is stored in association with the location of the document file stored in the temporary BOX 18a as processing history information. Also, the history table 29 (see FIG. 3) of the stored document file is updated.

The control unit 30 is configured by hardware such as a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM, and comprehensively controls the operation of each unit of the MFP 1 such as controlling the display of the operation panel unit 22.
FIG. 3 shows a document file history table 29 held by the document file history management unit 28.
As shown in FIG. 3, the document file history table 29 is a table related to the processing history of the document file, and includes items of “user name”, “attribute”, “processing type”, “file name”, and “processing date”. have.

“User name” is the user name in MFP 1 that instructed processing of the document file.
“Attribute” is an item indicating the attribute of the document file, “private” indicates that the document file is for a user belonging to a specific user, and “public” does not belong to a specific user (is open) Indicates a shared document file.
“Processing type” is an item indicating the type of processing such as printing, scanning, and FAX.

“File name” is a file name provisionally assigned to the document file. The name differs depending on the type of job. (A) In the case of a print job, in the case of a document to be printed (B) In the case of a scan job, in the case of a user name (C) for fax transmission , FAX destination telephone number.
Although not shown in FIG. 3, the document file history table 29 also includes a file path indicating the location information of the document file main body (original) stored in the temporary BOX 18a. For example, the file path of the file “ABC.doc” is “\ temporaryBOX \ ABC.doc”.

In addition to the file path, the location information only needs to be associated with the document file. For example, a unique file name may be assigned as the file name, and this may be used as location information. The relationship between the ID and the file name may be listed using the location information as the location information.
“Processing date and time” is the date and time when the document file was processed.

FIG. 4 is a functional block diagram showing the configuration of a PC (personal computer) 100.
The PC 100 includes a control unit 120, a storage unit 122, a network controller unit 124, an operation input unit 126, and a display unit 128.
The control unit 120 comprehensively controls the operation of each unit of the PC 100.
The storage unit 122 is composed of an HDD, and is installed with Windows (registered trademark) XP as an OS (operating system) and the document file acquisition program according to the present embodiment.

Further, the storage unit 122 stores, as login information to the MFP 1 and MFP 2, a user name and a password required for authentication are associated with each other.
The network controller unit 124 transmits / receives data to / from other devices in the LAN.
The operation input unit 126 includes an input device such as a keyboard 114 (see FIG. 1) and a mouse 116, and receives various operation inputs from the user.

The display unit 128 includes a monitor 112 and performs various displays for the user.
(Outline of document transfer flow)
FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an outline when a designated document file is transferred to the PC 100 from the document files stored in the MFP 1 (obtained from the PC 100).
Hereinafter, in the present embodiment, a certain user [user name: kawabata]
(A) March 7, 2005 (Monday) 17:00: The original is scanned by the MFP 1, and the generated image data is attached to an e-mail and transmitted (Scan-to-Email).

(B) March 10, 2005 (Thursday): The information processing apparatus checks whether the image data is generated as desired.
The case will be described as an example.
(1) By operating the operation panel unit of the MFP 1, the user logs in to the MFP 1 through an authentication procedure.
(2) The original document is scanned by the scanner unit 12, and the generated image data is attached to an e-mail and transmitted to a predetermined destination (Scan to Email). At this time, the document file history management unit 28 adds “kawabata” as the processing instruction user name, “2005/3/7/17: 00” as the processing date and time, and “Scan” as the processing type. The information is added as information, and the document file history table 29 is updated as processing history information. Thereafter, the image data is stored in the temporary BOX 18a, and the location information of the image data is added to the processing history information.
(3) After the process is completed, the user logs out from the MFP 1.
(4) Three days later, the user starts an operation on the PC 100 to acquire the image data.
(5) Login from the PC 100 to the MFP 1 as the user name “Kawabata”. This login is performed by sending login information to the MFP 1 stored in the storage unit 122 of the PC 100 or login information input on the PC.
(6) The PC 100 sends an acquisition request to the MFP 1 for processing history information of a document file that matches conditions such as attributes, processing date and time, and user name specified by the user.
(7) The MFP 1 receives the acquisition request, refers to the document file history table 29, and returns processing history information that matches the specified conditions to the PC 100.
(8) The PC 100 displays a document file selection menu based on the returned processing history information, accepts the selection of the document file to be acquired from the user, and transfers the document file corresponding to the selected processing history information. A request is sent to the MFP 1.
(9) The MFP 1 refers to the location information included in the selected processing history information, identifies the location of the document file, and transfers the document file to the PC 100.
(10) The user logs out from the MFP 1.

  In (6) of FIG. 5, the simplest processing history information is acquired within a predetermined date and time (for example, within one day, within five hours, etc.) from the current time (the time at which the acquisition request is sent). The predetermined date and time is preferably configured to be selectable by the user.) The processing history information acquisition request is sent to the MFP. In many cases, the user wants the most recently processed document file, and the user can easily achieve the purpose within the predetermined date and time.

However, some users do not always want only the document file processed within the predetermined date and time, and it is preferable to propose an acquisition method with more versatility.
Therefore, as an example of providing more versatility, an acquisition method after the stage (4) of the above (1) to (10) will be described.
6 to 8 are diagrams showing the main part of the display screen on the monitor 112 of the PC 100, and showing the transition of the document file selection menu.

First, as shown in FIG. 6A, a mouse cursor 198 is placed in a window 196 of a save destination directory (save destination folder) from which a document file is to be acquired.
Subsequently, as shown in FIG. 6B, when a right click of the mouse 116 operated by the user is accepted, a device selection menu 210 (document file selection) which is a right click menu (context menu) is displayed on the active window 196. Menu 200 and menu 200 are hierarchical menus).

For example, when the document file acquisition program according to the present embodiment is installed on Windows (registered trademark) XP, which is the OS, the item of the device selection menu 210 is to add a right-click menu item to the registry. This information is added by writing the information.
The device selection menu 210 displays a list of items “MFP1” and “MFP2” that are document processing devices connected to the PC 100.

When the cursor 198 is selected by placing the cursor 198 on the item “MFP 1”, login information to the MFP stored in the storage unit 122 of the PC 100 is sent to the MFP 1 and login to the MFP 1 through authentication (enters the authentication mode). ).
When the item “new creation” is selected by placing the cursor 198 over this item, a menu of files and folders to be newly created is displayed in the lower hierarchy. Since this item is an item that the OS has in advance and is well known, a description thereof will be omitted.

When the login is completed, a user name selection menu 220 is displayed as shown in FIG.
As the user name selection menu 220, items of “share” and “kawabata” as a login user name are displayed in a list.
Next, when the cursor 198 is selected by placing the cursor 198 on the item “Kawabata”, the document file to which the user name “Kawabata” is added as additional information is classified based on the date and time zone of the processing date and time. The date / time zone classification menu 232 is displayed [FIG. 7 (d)].

When the cursor 210 is overlaid on the item “Shared”, it is treated that the user name is not specified, and the date and time classification menu for only the document file to which the “public” attribute is added as additional information is similarly applied. Displayed (not shown).
In the date / time zone classification menu 232, the time zone (8: 00-9: 00, 10: 00-11: 00) and date zone (Wednesday, Monday, Last week, February) when the document file was processed are classified and displayed in a list. Has been.

In addition, the date and time zone is displayed from the top in the order from the current time, and the classification criteria are the hour unit for the current day, the other week for the same week, and the other weekly for the same week. And other than that, it is a monthly unit.
When the item “Monday” in the date / time zone classification menu 232 is selected, a specified date / time zone menu 234 is displayed below the menu 232 [FIG. 8 (e)].

The designated date and time zone menu 234 is a menu for displaying the processing history information of the document file whose processing date and time is included in the date and time zone selected in the date and time zone classification menu 232. In FIG. A list of processing history information limited to that corresponding to the selected Monday (2005/3/7) is displayed.
The displayed document files are displayed in the order of processing date / time, processing type, and file name.

In addition, in FIG.8 (e), although it displays until the processing date (3/7) and does not display until the processing time, it is more preferable to display the processing time.
When this selection is accepted by clicking the left button of the mouse 116 with the cursor placed on “2005/3/7 Scan kawa...” In the designated date and time zone menu 234, the save destination directory is stored in the MFP 1. A document having the processing history information “2005/3/7 Scan kawa...” Selected from the MFP 1 by sending a document file transfer request corresponding to the selected processing history information specified as the transfer destination. The file is transferred and copied onto the save destination directory [FIG. 8 (f)].

In general, the user often stores the time and date when the document file processing is instructed.
According to the present embodiment, the specified date / time zone menu 234 displays only the processing history information corresponding to the processing date / time on Monday (2005/3/7) designated by the date / time zone classification menu 233. Document files can be searched step by step based on the processing date and time, and it is easier to select a target document file than in the past.

In particular, when the number of selectable document files is enormous, by narrowing down the processing history information to be displayed step by step in this way, an appropriate route to the target document file can be obtained.
In many cases, the user stores the type of processing related to the document file, that is, the fact that it has been created by scanning, the fact that it has been faxed, and the like. Therefore, by displaying the document file processing type in the designated date and time menu 234, the user can search for the document file using the processing type as a clue.

Then, since it is considered that the user has a strong memory about the type of processing that he / she has actively instructed to perform, it is preferable that the type of processing is scan, FAX transmission, print, copy, mail transmission, etc. It is.
Further, the closer to the present time, the higher the possibility that the document file will be reused (for example, a case where the created image data is confirmed by its own information processing apparatus immediately after the scan instruction is given). As in the present embodiment, as the date and time zone when the document file is created is closer to the current time, the classification is further subdivided, so that the display suitable for the user can be performed, which contributes to the convenience of search.

In addition to this, the user remembers in detail about the most recent events, but tends to become ambiguous as he goes back in time. For example, if the document file is created on the same day, the memory becomes blurred as it goes back to yesterday and the day before yesterday, even if it is remembered until the creation time zone. The above effect can be asserted from this point.
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is of course not limited to the above-described embodiments.
(Modification 1)
In this modified example, a document file processed within a predetermined date and time before the present time and a document file processed before the date and time are displayed separately.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a document file selection menu according to this modification. In the figure, the same constituent elements as those of the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.
A latest menu 233 is displayed below the user name selection menu 220, and a specified date and time zone menu 234 is displayed further below.
The latest menu 233 has selection items “Today” and “Other”.

In the specified date and time zone menu 234, processing history information including the processing date and time is displayed on “Today” selected on the latest menu 233.
As described above, the closer to the current time, the higher the possibility that the document file will be reused. According to this modification, it is possible to improve convenience when searching for recent document files.

  In addition, instead of the latest menu 233, a menu displaying selection items “designated date and time” and “others” is displayed, and when the item “designated date and time” is selected, the designated date and time is displayed in the lower hierarchy. You may make it display the designation | designated date / time zone menu of the process history information whose processing date / time is contained in the zone. For example, when the user remembers that the processing date of the document file to be searched is last week, if the setting can be changed to “last week” as the “specified date and time zone”, the target file can be easily searched. I can do it.

(Other)
(1) Input for Display of Document File Selection Menu 200 that is a Context Menu In Embodiment 1, the selection menu 200 is displayed by right-clicking the mouse 116. However, the input device is limited to the mouse 116. The input button is not limited to this.

For example, in Windows (registered trademark) XP, a context menu can be displayed by inputting "SHIFT + F10" key.
In short, if the selection menu can be displayed by the key of the input device or the one-touch input, it is possible to provide a user-friendly usability.
(2) Regarding the point that the selection menu is displayed without generating a tool window As described in the section of “Background Art”, in order to transfer a document file in a conventional document processing apparatus, In addition, it is necessary to start up a tool for use, and to specify a transfer destination after selecting a document to be transferred.

When the above tool is activated, a new window is usually generated, so that the work environment on the desktop is deteriorated, and the operation of closing the window generated after transfer is required.
According to the first embodiment, since the document file selection menu 200 is a context menu in the active window of the save destination directory, a new window is never opened, and once the document file selection menu 200 is displayed. A desired document file can be selected simply by moving the mouse cursor 198.

Further, it is not necessary to separately specify information for specifying the directory as a transfer destination.
(3) Date and time zone (A) In the first embodiment, the designated date and time zone menu 234 (see FIG. 8) is used to select only document files whose processing date and time are included in the date and time zone selected in the date and time zone classification menu 232. Although displayed, the processing date and time zone of the document file to be displayed may be slightly widened.

Specifically, when a time zone of 9 o'clock (9: 00-10: 00) is specified, a document file whose processing date and time is around 8:50, 10:20, etc., is displayed. You may do it.
(B) In the first embodiment, only one date / time zone is specified, but a plurality of date / time zone specifications may be accepted.
(4) Temporary BOX 18a The temporary BOX 18a (see FIG. 2) deletes the document file with the “private” attribute saved from the information processing apparatus 100 as a trigger to save the capacity. You may make it. This is because the document file having the “private” attribute is unlikely to be reacquired.

On the other hand, it is preferable not to delete the document file having the “public” attribute regardless of whether or not it is acquired. This is because the document file having the “public” attribute may be used by an unspecified number of users.
(5) Document File History Table Storage Location In the first embodiment, the PC 100 sends an acquisition request for processing history information of a document file that matches conditions such as attributes, processing date and time, and user name to the MFP 1. However, for example, a document file history table in the MFP connected to the PC 100 is periodically acquired and stored in the storage unit 122 of the PC 100. It doesn't matter.

Further, the document file history table in the MFP may be created and managed on the PC 100 side.
By doing so, the process of making an inquiry to the PC 100 can be skipped, so that the processing time for displaying the menu can be shortened.
(6) Document File Acquisition Program The document file acquisition program according to the present invention includes, for example, a magnetic disk such as a magnetic tape and a flexible disk, an optical recording medium such as a DVD, CD-ROM, CD-R, and MO, a smart medium ( When recording on various recording media readable by a PC, such as flash memory recording media such as registered trademark and compact flash (registered trademark), and production, transfer, etc. are performed in the form of the recording media In some cases, the data may be transmitted / supplied through various wired and wireless networks including the Internet, broadcasting, telecommunication lines, satellite communications, and the like.
(Embodiment 2)
In the present embodiment, a document file selection menu is displayed on the operation panel unit 22 of the MFP 1. It is assumed that a user (user name: Kawabata) selects a document file on the MFP 1 instead of the PC 100. In addition, description of the component similar to Embodiment 1 is abbreviate | omitted, and it demonstrates centering on a different part.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display screen on the operation panel unit 22.
A user (user name: Kawabata) is logged in to the MFP 1.
In FIG. 10A, a screen of a date / time zone classification menu 300 classified based on the creation date / time (processing date / time) zone of the stored document file is displayed. The date and time zone keys 302, 304, and 306 can be selected by pressing each. Note that when the “next” key 308 is pressed, the screen switches to a date and time zone classification menu screen of “Monday, last week, February” (not shown).

When any of the keys 302, 304, and 306 is pressed, the screen is switched to a display screen of a specified date / time zone menu 310 that is processing history information within the range of the date / time zone specified by the press [FIG. 10]. (B)].
The processing history information keys 312, 314, and 316 of the specified date / time zone menu 310 can be selected by pressing them.

In general, the operation panel provided in the MFP is often smaller in screen size than that of an information processing device, and the provided touch panel keys and push buttons are not suitable for quick character input, and it is time-consuming to search for a file. It tends to cost. According to the MFP 1 according to the present embodiment, it is possible to solve the problem.
In the second embodiment, the case of selecting a document file stored in the MFP 1's own device has been described. However, a device selection screen for acquiring a document file is displayed on the operation panel unit of the MFP 1. Thus, the document file may be obtained from the MFP 2 which is another device.

  Since the document file acquisition method according to the present invention makes it possible to select a target document file more easily than in the past, the utility value is extremely high.

2 is a diagram showing a configuration of a file system 3. FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of MFP1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the document file history table 29 which the document file history management part 28 hold | maintains. 2 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration of a PC 100. FIG. FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram showing an overview when a specified document file is transferred from a document file stored in MFP 1 to PC 100. It is a figure which shows the transition of the main part of the display screen of the monitor 112, and the selection menu of a document file. It is a figure which shows the transition of the main part of the display screen of the monitor 112, and the selection menu of a document file. It is a figure which shows the transition of the main part of the display screen of the monitor 112, and the selection menu of a document file. It is a figure which shows the document file selection menu 200 which concerns on the modification 1. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a display screen on operation panel unit 22 of MFP 1 according to Embodiment 2. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

1, 2 MFP
3 File system 12 Scanner unit 14 FAX unit 18 Storage unit 18a Temporary BOX
18b User BOX
22 Operation Panel Unit 26 Printer Unit 28 Document File History Management Unit 29 Document File History Table 30 Control Unit (Display Control Unit)
100 PC (information processing equipment)
112 Monitor 114 Keyboard 116 Mouse 120 Control unit of PC 100 122 Storage unit of PC 100 198 Mouse cursor 200 Document file selection menu 210 Device selection menu 220 User name selection menu 232,300 Date and time zone classification menu 233 Latest menu 234 and 310 Designated date and time zone menu

Claims (18)

A document processing device that associates and stores a document file that has been processed and processing history information that includes the processing date and time that the processing has been performed, and an information processing device are connected via a network. A document file acquisition method for acquiring a document file processed by the document processing apparatus,
A device designation accepting step for accepting designation of a document processing device to be acquired on the screen of the information processing device;
A receiving step of receiving processing history information from a designated document processing device in the information processing device;
On the screen of the information processing apparatus, among the received processing history information, the processing history information whose processing date is a predetermined date and time is displayed, and at least one processing history information of the displayed processing history information A display selection acceptance step for accepting a selection of;
A document file obtaining method comprising: obtaining a document file associated with the selected processing history information from the document processing apparatus. The document file acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined date and time zone is within a predetermined date and time from the current date and time. 3. The document file acquisition method according to claim 1, wherein the receiving step receives processing history information corresponding to the predetermined date and time zone. The display selection receiving step includes
A date and time zone classification menu display substep for displaying a date and time zone classification menu in which the date and time zone of the processing date and time included in the processing history information received in the reception step is classified;
A date and time zone designation receiving substep for accepting designation of at least one date and time zone among the date and time zones classified and displayed by the date and time zone classification menu;
The document file acquisition method according to claim 1, further comprising: a designated date / time zone menu display substep for displaying a designated date / time zone menu indicating the processing history information corresponding to the designated date / time zone. The date / time zone classification menu is a menu in which a date / time zone of a processing date / time from a current time to a predetermined date / time in the past is distinguished from a date / time zone of a processing date / time earlier than the predetermined date / time. Item 5. The document file acquisition method according to Item 4. 6. The document file acquisition method according to claim 4, wherein the date / time zone classification menu is a menu in which the date / time zone closer to the present time is divided into categories. 7. The document file acquisition according to claim 4, wherein the date / time zone classification menu does not display the specific date / time zone when the processing date / time within the range of the specific date / time zone does not exist. Method. 8. The document file acquisition method according to claim 4, wherein, in the designated date / time zone menu display sub-step, the designated date / time zone menu is displayed in a lower hierarchy of the date / time zone classification menu. The processing history information further includes user attribute information indicating a user attribute of the document file,
The display selection receiving step includes a user name selection menu display substep for displaying a user name selection menu in the document processing apparatus,
At least one menu of the date / time zone classification menu or the specified date / time zone menu is a menu related to processing history information including user attribute information corresponding to a user name selected in the user name selection menu. The document file acquisition method according to claim 4. The user attribute information includes information indicating that the user attribute does not belong to a specific user,
At least one menu of the date / time zone classification menu or the specified date / time zone menu includes a processing history including user attribute information indicating that the user does not belong to a specific user when a specific user name is not specified in the user name selection menu. The document file obtaining method according to claim 9, wherein the document file is a menu related to information. The document processing apparatus has means for performing a plurality of types of processing on a document file,
The processing history information includes information for specifying the type of processing,
5. The designated date / time zone menu displayed in the designated date / time zone menu display sub-step is a menu showing a processing date and time corresponding to a range of a designated date / time zone and a type of the processing. To 10. Document file acquisition method according to any one of 12. The document file acquisition method according to claim 11, wherein the plurality of types of processing are at least one of scanning, FAX transmission, printing, and copying. The date / time zone classification menu in the date / time zone classification menu display sub-step is a context menu displayed in a window of a predetermined directory,
13. The document file acquisition method according to claim 4, wherein, in the acquisition step, an acquisition request including information specifying the directory as an acquisition destination is sent to the document processing apparatus. The document file according to any one of claims 4 to 13, wherein in the date / time zone classification menu display sub-step, the date / time zone classification menu is displayed in response to a one-touch input of a key or button of an input device in the computer. Acquisition method. 15. The document file acquisition method according to claim 14, wherein the input device is a mouse, and the one-touch input is a right button click of the mouse. Controls processing means for performing predetermined processing relating to the document file, storage means for storing the processed document file and processing history information including the processing date and time when the processing has been performed, and display related to the stored document file A document processing apparatus comprising: a display control unit configured to perform an operation input unit that receives an operation input related to the displayed document file;
The display control means displays a screen showing processing history information whose processing date and time is a predetermined date and time as a document file acquisition target, and selects at least one processing history information from the displayed processing history information Document processing apparatus characterized by receiving The document processing apparatus is connected to another document processing apparatus via a network,
The display control means displays a screen for accepting designation of a document processing apparatus from which a document file is to be acquired. When a document processing apparatus other than its own apparatus accepts designation, the display control means receives the designation from the other document processing apparatus. Receive processing history information,
Displaying a screen showing processing history information in which the processing date is a predetermined date and time among the received processing history information, accepting selection of at least one processing history information of the displayed processing history information,
17. The document processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein a document file associated with the selected processing history information is received from the other document processing apparatus. A document processing device that associates and stores a document file that has been processed and processing history information that includes the processing date and time that the processing has been performed, and an information processing device are connected via a network. A document file acquisition program for acquiring a document file processed by the document processing apparatus,
A device designation accepting step for accepting designation of a document processing device to be acquired on the screen of the information processing device;
A receiving step of receiving processing history information from a designated document processing device in the information processing device;
On the screen of the information processing apparatus, among the received processing history information, the processing history information whose processing date is a predetermined date and time is displayed, and at least one processing history information of the displayed processing history information A display selection acceptance step for accepting a selection of;
A document file acquisition program that causes the information processing apparatus to execute an acquisition step of acquiring a document file associated with selected processing history information from the document processing apparatus.

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